Children and families practitioner jobs in Manchester

Join For Baby’s Sake in creating safer, healthier futures for babies and families.

We are looking for a compassionate and skilled Therapeutic Practitioner to deliver For Baby’s Sake across the North East of England. This is a home-based role with hybrid working, and applicants must be based in the region and able to travel to deliver a blend of online and face-to-face sessions. This is a meaningful opportunity to support families as they make lasting change during one of the most important stages of life.

For Baby’s Sake is an innovative, therapeutic, trauma-informed programme that works to break the cycle of domestic abuse, starting in pregnancy, to give babies the best possible start in life. We work individually with co-parents, keeping the baby at the centre, and using a therapeutic, recovery-focused framework to address the impact of domestic abuse with care, compassion, and respect. The programme supports parents to explore unresolved and often complex childhood trauma, change harmful patterns of behaviour, and create a home environment in which children can thrive. Our attachment-focused parenting approach helps babies and children feel safe, secure, and connected with parents who are emotionally available and attuned to their needs.

The programme begins during pregnancy, when motivation for change can be strongest. Both parents must want to co-parent their unborn baby, although they do not need to be in a relationship with one another. We can work with families until their baby reaches the age of two, reflecting the importance of this period in child development research.

The For Baby’s Sake Trust multi-disciplinary team is made up of trained therapeutic practitioners who build trusting, respectful relationships and create conditions for meaningful therapeutic change. This work supports co-parents to understand the impact of their own early experiences on their parenting and relationships, and to move towards safer, healthier family lives. To thrive in this role, you will have the skills to build therapeutic relationships, experience of safeguarding children and adults, knowledge of infant development, and a deep understanding of domestic abuse, attachment, and the effects of unresolved trauma.

Trauma-informed practice is at the heart of For Baby’s Sake. We have achieved Silver Accreditation for Trauma-Informed Practice with One Small Thing. We understand that trauma can shape an individual’s neurological, biological, psychological, and social development, and we are committed to responding in ways that are thoughtful, compassionate, and rooted in hope. In this role, you will help support the continued development of the programme while upholding the ethos, values, and integrity of The For Baby’s Sake Trust.

This is a full-time, permanent position. Full details, including the job description, person specification, and background briefing information, can be found in the relevant attachments. Occasional travel to locations across the UK will be required.

At The For Baby’s Sake Trust, we care about the wellbeing of our staff as well as the families we support. We offer flexible working arrangements, rest and reflect days, clinical supervision, and access to an Employee Assistance Programme.

If this opportunity feels like the right fit for you, we'd love to hear from you.

To apply, please submit your application form and an up-to-date CV via the 'Apply' button by midnight on 29 June 2026.

After submitting your application, you will receive an Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form. Completion of this form is voluntary, confidential, and separate from the selection process.

Interviews for the Therapeutic Practitioner role are scheduled to take place on 10 July 2026.

You can find further information about The For Baby’s Sake Trust on our website.

Salary: £37,650 - £45,480 per annum, depending on experience  

Hours: 35 hours per week 

Contract: Permanent 

Location: Worcestershire 

Job Reference No: 1727

Are you passionate about safeguarding and making a real difference in people’s lives? At Cranstoun, we are a social justice charity with a global ambition: to be a world-class leader in rebuilding lives. We are looking for a registered Social Worker Safeguarding Lead to join the Cranstoun Worcestershire service. 

Cranstoun Worcestershire delivers drug and alcohol treatment services across the county, with teams working closely with partners to support individuals and families affected by drug and alcohol use. 

You will take the lead on safeguarding across the service, providing expert advice, guidance and oversight on complex cases involving adults and children. You will support practitioners through consultation, supervision and training, and ensure safeguarding practice meets statutory requirements and professional standards. 

You will also play a key role in multi-agency working, representing the service at safeguarding forums, contributing to MARAC and child/adult safeguarding processes, and supporting continuous improvement through audits and service development. 

The most important thing you’ll bring to this role is your ability to provide strong professional leadership and make defensible decisions in complex safeguarding situations, ensuring the people we support are protected and empowered. 

All post holders may be required to work some evenings, to meet our service delivery requirements. The core service operates Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm. 

Applicants must be able to provide satisfactory evidence of their right to work in the UK at the application stage. 

All posts are subject to an enhanced DBS Disclosure. 

For more details and to apply, please visit our website via the apply button.

Closing date: 5 July 2026. 

Interview date: Week commencing 13 July 2026.

We are an inclusive employer, committed to promoting equality and diversity in all areas of our work. 

Registered Charity No: 1061582 

The On Demand Shift Manager provides operational leadership, clinical oversight and shift coordination for the On Demand bereavement support services which operate Mondays through Fridays 8am to 8pm. The role ensures that children, young people, and adults receive timely, safe and compassionate responses to bereavement needs through digital and on-demand channels.

In addition to line managing the On Demand Bereavement Specialists, the post holder also works on shift as part of the delivery rota to support the team directly, provide real-time guidance, and covers frontline services gaps. This blended role combines hands-on leadership, active service participation, and quality assurance, promoting excellent clinical standards, safeguarding practice, and a culture of learning and care. The post holder will work closely with the Head of On Demand Services to ensure that On Demand Services remain responsive, trauma-informed and aligned with best practice and organisational priorities.

Main Responsibilities

Leadership and Management

· Lead and coordinate daily On Demand service operations to ensure timely and effective response to live support requests

· Working closely with the other On Demand Shift Managers, manage team rotas, shift allocations, and cover arrangements to maintain consistent staffing and service continuity

· Provide real-time oversight during active service hours, offering guidance on case complexity, prioritisation and risk management

· Work on shift as part of service delivery to provide direct bereavement support, model best practice and ensure adequate cover during periods of high demand or staff absence

· Ensure service efficiency through proactive communication, timely handovers, and smooth transitions between shifts

· Support the Head of On Demand Services in monitoring resourcing, workflows and performance metrics

·  Offer live, on-shift supervision and mentorship to On Demand Bereavement Specialists, ensuring quality and consistency of interventions

· Support staff in making safe, informed, and trauma-sensitive decisions in line with organisational safeguarding policies

· Provide clinical leadership for the On Demand Bereavement Specialists on shift, offering case consultation and decision-making support particularly in high-risk, ethically complex or emotionally intense presentations

· Hold clinical responsibility for the most complex service users on shift, supporting staff to formulate risk, decide on interventions, and coordinate onward referrals or emergency responses in line with organisational policies and processional codes of ethics

· Model high standards of clinical thinking, boundaries and self-care, supporting staff and volunteers to manage vicarious trauma, moral distress and the emotional impact of working on an On Demand service

· Facilitate reflective debriefing following challenging or traumatic cases to maintain staff wellbeing and service stability

· Ensure all support aligns with the NICE (2004) Level 2 psychological intervention framework and current evidence-based practice

· Foster a compassionate, psychologically safe team culture that prioritises practitioner wellbeing, resilience, vicarious trauma awareness and continuous learning from service delivery

· Collaborate with the Head of On Demand Services on workforce planning, recruitment, induction and succession to maintain service resilience and capacity

Communication and Relationships

· Communicate clearly and sensitively within the organisation and with external partners, including parents, carers and professionals across social care, education, health and mental health services (i.e. schools, social services, CAMHS, CMHTs and/or GPs)

· Provide clear, supportive and trauma-informed communication to bereaved children, young people and adults during live shifts, adapting approach to age, crisis level and digital medium

· Offer real-time guidance, debriefing and constructive feedback to On Demand Bereavement Specialists during shifts, promoting consistent standards and shared learning

· Build collaborative relationships with internal teams and external stakeholders to support integrated care pathways

· Communicate effectively with the Head of On Demand Services and senior leadership on shift incidents, risks, service pressures and quality improvements, escalating appropriately

· Handle sensitive feedback, complaints and critical incidents with empathy, transparency and solution focus, maintaining trust with internal and external stakeholders

· Adapt communication style and approach to suit the needs, preferences, and emotional states of children, young people and adults, including those with neurodiverse profiles or communication difficulties

· Provide clear, compassionate explanations of support options, safeguarding procedures, and next steps to children, young people, adults and families

· Maintain professional boundaries while fostering a safe and supportive environment for children, young people and adults

· Respond to challenging or emotionally charged situations with sensitivity, professionalism, and a focus on empathy and support

· Ensure accurate and timely documentation of communications and decisions in line with organisational policies and data protection regulations

Knowledge, training and experience

· Assess and engage in interventions with children, young people and/or adults in accordance with best practice

· Complete comprehensive psychosocial assessments which include assessments of risk and determining appropriate level of response/intervention

· Deliver targeted pre/post bereavement support and interventions utilising a range of therapeutic and psychosocial techniques, working within level 2 of the NICE (2004) psychological framework

· Advanced understanding of grief, loss, trauma, child development, and the psychological and social impact of bereavement on children, young people, families and adults

· Apply sound clinical judgment and maintain professional accountability for practice in line with national standards, organisational policies, and personal relevant professional Code of Conduct

· Maintain knowledge about current, evidence-based practice

· To maintain a personal profile of professional development in accordance with professional requirements/governing bodies

· Demonstrate knowledge of all relevant policies and procedures

· Adhere to legislation and statutory guidance related to Safeguarding Children and Young People, Safeguarding Adults, and the Mental Capacity Act, providing advice and guidance to colleagues and partner agencies where appropriate

· Participate actively in clinical supervision and reflective practice to ensure safe, ethical, and effective service delivery

· Contribute to the development and sharing of knowledge within the team by supporting training, mentoring, and peer learning opportunities

Analytical and judgment skills

· Strong ability to make rapid, sound clinical and safeguarding judgments during live shifts, assessing risk, prioritising cases and deciding on immediate interventions or escalations

· Analyse real-time service data to optimise shift deployment, identify trends and recommend operational improvements

· Alongside the Head of On Demand Services critically evaluate team performance, recordings, transcripts and audits to provide targeted service or staff development, mitigate practice drift and uphold clinical governance standards

· Exercise exceptional professional judgment in assessing the emotional, psychological, and social needs of children, young people, and adults pre and post bereavement and in the delivery of immediate on demand support

· Analyse complex information gathered through assessment, observation, and communication to identify individual needs, risks, and strengths

· Recognise and manage situations that involve ambiguity, uncertainty, or emotional intensity, drawing on supervision and established frameworks for professional support

· Apply a trauma-informed and developmentally appropriate lens to clinical decision-making, ensuring sensitivity to cultural, social, and contextual factors influencing grief

· Contribute actively to meetings, clinical supervision, peer supervision, case discussions, and service reviews to plan, coordinate, and evaluate strategies of care and support

· Ensure accurate, timely, and meaningful data recording and reporting to inform clinical practice, service evaluation, and organisational performance monitoring

· Planning and organisational skills

· Strong shift and staff coordination

· Plan and organise work autonomously while engaging collaboratively with colleagues and volunteers to support coordinated care and seamless service delivery

· Support in the organisation of comprehensive quality assurance processes including shift audits, case sampling, outcome tracking and compliance monitoring

· Plan and deliver team training, drills and simulations for crisis scenarios, digital tool proficiency and new protocols, ensuring readiness for peaks in bereavement demand

· Provide cover and support for On Demand Support Service staff during periods of absence or high demand

· Maintain accurate, up-to-date documentation in accordance with confidentiality, data protection, and statutory requirements

· Demonstrate self-awareness and reflective capacity, using supervision and peer support to sustain personal wellbeing and professional effectiveness

· Contribute to the development of efficient, evidence-based practices by supporting team planning, service evaluation, and continuous improvement initiatives

Person Specification

· Level 4 qualification (or above) in counselling, psychotherapy, clinical psychology, counselling psychology or arts psychotherapy Current registration with a professional body (ie. HCPC, BACP, UKCP, NCPS)

· Current registration with a professional body (ie. HCPC, BACP, UKCP, NCPS)

· Evidence of relevant continuing professional development

· Experience of leading a team, ideally in bereavement, palliative care, mental health or closely related fields

· Experience with digital platforms

· Proven track record of successfully managing multidisciplinary teams delivering services to complex service users and complex safeguarding and risk issues involving children and adults

· Proven skills in managing teams and change successfully

· Experience of working therapeutically with children and young people

· Experience of working therapeutically with adults

· Robust knowledge of the emotional and psychological impact of bereavement and the needs of bereaved children, young people, families and adults

· Strong understanding of grief, loss and trauma across the life course, and of evidence-based bereavement interventions for children, young people and adults

· Deep understanding and knowledge of psychological theories, therapeutic interventions and models of grief work for children, young people and adults, and their effective application in practice

· Able to make clear psychological assessments inclusive of risk, safeguarding and mental health needs for children, young people and adults

·  Expert knowledge of safeguarding policies and procedures

· Strong leadership, communication and relationship-building skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels and work collaboratively across teams and organisations.

· Strong understanding of change management and how best to implement change

· Excellent communication skills both verbal and written

· Attention to detail and produces reports and information to a consistently high standard

· Ability to manage time effectively, meeting deadlines while maintaining quality and accuracy

· Ability to successfully work collaboratively with colleagues, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills and the ability to influence and engage others positively

· Ability to deliver effective support, supervision, and line management to staff and volunteers, fostering professional growth and accountability

· Model high levels of personal integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct

· Bring passion and enthusiasm for delivering high quality digital first bereavement services to children, young people, families and adults

Benefits

· 25 days’ holiday plus bank holidays (pro rata if applicable) with increase for long service.

· TOIL for our hours work.

· Contributory pension scheme.

· Company sick pay.

· Employee Assistance Programme.

· Life assurance.

· Training loans.

· Enhanced family friendly policies.

Recruitment Timetable

Application deadline: 17th June 2026 at midnight

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high number of applications for the role before the closing date.

Please refer to our recruitment pack for further details on the interview process.

We are seeking a dynamic, strategic, and highly organised individual with either registered healthcare status or an experienced commissioner of healthcare services and a passion for supporting people with long-term health conditions like ME.

As Clinical Lead, you will play a pivotal role in the delivery and development of our Healthcare Services. As our CQC Registered Manager, you will play a critical role in supporting the team and assuring effective and safe services for people with ME of all ages and their families.

Reporting to the Director of Operations, you will also play a pivotal role in developing our services, drive performance and optimise processes, and enhance service delivery to take action with impact to better support individuals living with ME.

Job Purpose   

Working closely with the Director of Operations, the Clinical Lead will play a pivotal role in leading and developing Action for ME’s clinical Healthcare Services, ensuring the highest standards of clinical care for individuals affected by Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME). The postholder will be responsible for clinical oversight, service development, and leadership, working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams to enhance outcomes for children and adults with ME and will be the CQC Registered Manager for the service.  

At present, Healthcare Services is a small team with two physiotherapists and one doctor (specialist GP), with plans to recruit more.

We are keen to develop and expand our services, building on the small amount of spot purchasing from local commissioning boards and exploring a diagnosing and prescribing offer. We are also keen to explore the potential of increasing the range of disciplines offered within the team. You will play a key role in contributing to, and delivering, the strategy for our Healthcare Services.  

Key Responsibilities  

• Provide clinical support and expertise to Action for ME's Healthcare Services, ensuring evidence-based, person-centred care.  
• Act as Registered Manager for CQC (Care Quality Commission) purposes and ensure that the service meets all required standards.   
• Lead the development and implementation of clinical policies, protocols, and best practices in line with national guidelines and regulatory requirements.  
• Supervise and support healthcare professionals within the service, offering guidance, mentorship, and training.  
• Collaborate with external stakeholders, including NHS services, researchers, and others, to enhance healthcare provision for people with ME.  
• Ensure the service complies with regulatory and safeguarding standards, including CQC requirements where applicable.  
• Monitor and evaluate service delivery, using data-driven insights to improve clinical outcomes and patient experience.  
• Provide expert advice on complex cases, supporting the team with clinical decision-making.  
• Designated Safeguarding Officer for Healthcare Services.   
• Represent Action for ME at external forums, conferences, and policy discussions.   

Person specification
All criteria noted below are essential requirements of the role.

Qualifications

• A registered healthcare professional (e.g., doctor, nurse, physiotherapist, or occupational therapist) with active professional registration (GMC, NMC, HCPC or equivalent) OR an experienced commissioner of healthcare services with experience of quality assurance, safeguarding and compliance. 

Experience and Knowledge

• Extensive clinical experience in chronic illness management OR sound understanding of clinical practice, ideally with expertise in ME or related conditions and a clear understanding of the challenges faced by people with ME.  
• An understanding of Care Quality Commission regulatory requirements.
• Proven leadership experience in a healthcare setting, including team management and service development.  
• Strong understanding of evidence-based practice and clinical governance.  
• A sound understanding and experience of safeguarding children/young people and vulnerable adults.
• Experience in training and mentoring healthcare professionals.  
• Knowledge of NHS structures and commissioning processes.  
• An understanding of working within the third sector or charitable organisations.

Skills and Behaviours

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with patients, carers, and healthcare professionals.  
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary environment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (including Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams) and the ability to quickly learn relevant bespoke software systems.

Attitudes

• Commitment to patient-centred care and advocacy for people with ME.  

Progression Coach

You will be joining a very tight-knit and supportive team that works tirelessly to ensure some of the most vulnerable individuals are well-cared for.

Location: Manchester (GM Pathfinder)

Salary: £29,481 per annum

Closing Date: 05 July, 2026

Employment Type: Permanent

Hours per week: 37.5

About the Role

Ready to help young people move forward with confidence? We’re seeking a proactive Progression Coach to support 18–25‑year‑olds at risk of homelessness to secure housing, stabilize finances and engage in work, learning or training. You’ll manage your own caseload, deliver tailored one‑to‑one support in the community, and use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy principles to build resilience, motivation and independence.

You’ll be confident working autonomously and collaboratively—creating robust risk assessments and outcomes‑focused support plans, recording impact clearly, and partnering with local services, landlords and community organisations to get results. Safeguarding, professionalism and reflective practice will sit at the heart of your work.

This role is ideal for someone with experience supporting vulnerable young people in fast‑paced environments, who believes in strengths‑based practice and positive change. In return, you’ll get ACT training, flexible hybrid working, strong supervision and the chance to make a real, measurable difference every day.

Please note that this job opportunity is offered as a full-time (37.5 hour per week), permanent role.

KEY DELIVERABLES

• You will support all clients to achieve their desired outcomes relating to accommodation, improved financial stability, improved social networks and improved engagement in meaningful activities

• You will record your work accurately and in a timely manner on our client database

• You will ensure the safety and wellbeing of clients at all times including ensuring that Safeguarding and emergency alert procedures are followed and managed appropriately, as laid out in Depaul’s Policy and Procedures

• You will carry a large caseload of clients and ensure each client receives personcentred, tailored support

• You will ensure every client in your caseload has a high-quality risk assessment and a SMART outcomes-based support plan that are regularly reviewed

• You will deliver one-to-one support in the local community and will occasionally facilitate group work

• You will proactively collaborate and promote multiagency working by leading on partnerships with local agencies including statutory teams, private landlords, third sector organisations and others, to support the wellbeing of Depaul clients in accordance with data protection and information sharing protocols

• You will be flexible, reflective and creative in your engagement with clients and personalise your support to them

• You will involve clients in the decisions made about them and encourage participation in Depaul’s wider community programme of activities

• You will engage in regular supervisions, appraisals, caseload reviews and team meetings with your line manager and the wider team

• You will work within the principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and apply this to your daily work with young people and also within the team

• You will fully understand the requirements of the outcomes-based contract

• You will proactively engage with internal and external Evaluation teams to improve the service delivery

• You will work office hours but will need to maintain flexibility to meet the needs of your clients, which may mean working outside of these times

• You will undertake further duties as commensurate to the role, in line with Depaul Policies and Procedures and as identified by your line manager

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR FROM YOU

When completing your application form please address all the points set out below.

• Experience of working in a busy environment supporting young people who have experienced homelessness, mental ill health, substance misuse or limited access to opportunities

• Experience of managing a large caseload independently

• Experience of lone working in the community

• Good literacy, numeracy and IT skills

• Experience of keeping records continuously up to date and accurate, logging information in a timely manner

• An understanding of and commitment to working in a strengths-based way

• Experience and understanding of Risk Assessments and Support Planning

• Experience and understanding of safeguarding requirements and procedures

• Commitment to working in a manner, which promotes diversity and equality ensuring that everyone is treated with respect and dignity and no one suffers from discrimination

• Commitment to promoting an environment that has the highest regard for the Health and Safety of self and others

• Personal and professional integrity

• High level understanding of professional boundaries and ability to maintain boundaries

• Effective collaborative working and partnership building

• Ability to effectively reflect on own practices for ongoing learning and development

• Respect for the values and ethos of Depaul and its founding partners

What You’ll Receive

· Tailored training and development

· Flexible working options where suitable

· 26 days annual leave, rising with service

· Family friendly leave policies

· Pension scheme with employer contributions up to 7%

· Employee Assistance Programme with 24/7 GP access

· Discounts across retail, travel, food, fitness and more

· Cash health plan for you and your family

· Death in service benefit

· Access to legal and practical support

Safer Recruitment

Depaul UK is committed to fair and inclusive recruitment, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds. If a role requires it under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975, we will carry out the appropriate Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. We only look at information that is relevant to the role, and a criminal record will never be treated as an automatic barrier to employment. All DBS information is handled sensitively, confidentially and in line with the DBS Code of Practice, and we encourage applicants to discuss any concerns with us openly.

About Depaul UK

In the 1980s, high unemployment and steep inflation was contributing to a shocking rise in youth homelessness across London. Thousands of young people were sleeping rough every night, with many areas notoriously dubbed “cardboard cities” due to the visible rise in street homelessness. Appalled by the scenes playing out across the capital, a group of people came together to tackle the challenge head on. Led by Cardinal Basil Hume and Mark McGreevy OBE, in 1989 Depaul UK was born.

What began as a single housing project in North London soon expanded across London, Greater Manchester and the North East of England. Today, Depaul UK provides accommodation, prevention and support services to thousands of marginalised young people across the UK each year.

As our name suggests, the work of Depaul UK has been inspired by St. Vincent de Paul – a man who devoted his life to helping vast numbers of people throughout the 17th century. St. Vincent de Paul’s belief in the intrinsic worth of all people and his commitment to taking bold action remain central to our values today. Depaul UK now forms part of a family of Depaul charities around the world. We each focus on the specific challenges in our own countries, but we’re united by our shared values and mission to end homelessness.

For over 60 years the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) has been building a better childhood for all.

Research and Development Officer
Contract: Permanent
Work Pattern: Part Time, 28 hours per week (0.8 FTE)
Salary: £27,526 per annum, with annual salary increments for the first three years
Location: Homebased – however NCB and RiP has offices in Sheffield, Newton Abbot and Belfast that staff can work from should they choose.

The Vacancy

For over 20 years, Research in Practice has been at the forefront of supporting evidence-informed practice in adult social care. We are now looking for a passionate and experienced Research and Development Officer to join our adults’ team.

This is a fantastic opportunity for a skilled facilitator with strong experience in adult social care (or a related sector, e.g. housing, homelessness, mental health or criminal justice) who is motivated to make a real impact. While the role requires a solid understanding of research and its application, it is not a primary research post—instead, the focus is on translating evidence into meaningful learning and development opportunities.

You will play a key role in designing and delivering high-quality learning experiences, including programmes, full-day workshops, webinars, and events, working with diverse audiences such as senior leaders and practitioners.

What you’ll be doing

• Designing and delivering engaging learning and development activities for a range of audiences
• Translating complex research, policy, and legal frameworks into accessible, practical learning
• Developing high-quality outputs (e.g. publications, tools, and learning resources)
• Building strong relationships with stakeholders and supporting collaborative projects
• Managing multiple projects effectively in a varied and fast-paced environment

About you

We are looking for someone who brings:

• In-depth knowledge of adult social care, or related sectors such as criminal justice, housing and homelessness, or mental health
• Experience in facilitation and delivering learning, including workshops and webinars
• A strong understanding of research, policy, and practice frameworks
• Skills in knowledge mobilisation, with a passion for co-production and evidence implementation
• Proven experience in relationship management
• Excellent communication skills, including confident public speaking
• The ability to manage competing priorities and work flexibly (including occasional travel and overnight stays)

Research in Practice

Research in Practice is part of the National Children’s Bureau (NCB) family. For over 60 years, the NCB has been building a better childhood for all.

Research in Practice works with organisations across the adults and children’s social care, health and criminal justice sectors, supporting them to develop an evidence-informed approach to their work. Our focus is on using evidence from research, practice and lived experience, to provide resources that improve policy and services, in order to achieve positive outcomes for people of all ages.

About NCB

For more than 60 years, the National Children’s Bureau has championed the rights and amplified the voice of children and young people in the UK. We interrogate policy and uncover evidence, blending in lived and learnt experience to shape future legislation and develop more effective ways of supporting children and families.

Bringing people and organisations together is fundamental to how we improve the systems that babies, children, young people and their families rely on to thrive. We push boundaries, even looking beyond childhood itself to consider transitions into adulthood and the impact of childhood issues on an entire lifespan. We are united for better childhoods and brighter futures.

The Benefits

• 30 Days Annual Leave
• Generous Pension Scheme
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flexible Working
• Winter Holiday Closure & Break

Employee Assistance Programme

Closing date: 8am, Friday 10th July 2026
Please note that we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high volume of applications. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications as soon as possible .

Interested?

If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.

We are actively seeking to broaden the diversity of our staff group and warmly welcome applications from candidates underrepresented in the charity sector, including those from Black and Global Majority communities, disabled people, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with lived experience of the issues NCB works on.

No agencies please.

Position: Charity Shop Managers
Hours: Full-time, 35 hours a week
Contract(s): Permanent (2 positions available)
Location: Bosden Farm, South Manchester, SK2 5JL & Stockport, Greater Manchester, SK1 1LW
Salary: £25,258 per annum plus excellent benefits
Salary Band and Job Family: Band 1, Auxiliary

About us

We make sure people living with MS are at the centre of everything we do. And it’s this commitment that unites us across the UK.

Our strategy is based on what people affected by MS have told us is important to them. It gives us a clear and determined focus.

Our work is based on the hopes and aspirations of our MS community. Together we campaign at all levels, fund ground-breaking research and provide award winning support and information.

Our people are our greatest asset and the key to our success. We offer a vibrant, progressive working environment where you'll be able to make a difference.

About this job

The MS Society is looking for a passionate and dynamic Shop Manager to lead the daily operations of one of our retail locations. This role is key to supporting our mission of improving the lives of those affected by multiple sclerosis (MS). The Shop Manager will be responsible for driving sales, managing a team of volunteers and staff, maintaining high standards of customer service, and ensuring efficient stock control. The role will also involve working with donors, promoting the MS Society’s work, and supporting fundraising efforts. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills, alongside a commitment to our charitable goals and the ability to inspire a dedicated team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee all shop operations, including sales, stock management, and visual merchandising.
• Manage a team of volunteers and staff, providing training, guidance, and support.
• Drive sales targets and ensure the shop meets its fundraising goals.
• Ensure exceptional customer service standards are consistently met.
• Organise and coordinate in-store promotions and events.
• Manage donations and stock intake, ensuring the shop remains organised and efficient.
• Adhere to health and safety regulations and ensure the shop operates within budget.

This is a rewarding opportunity for an individual who is passionate about making a difference and eager to contribute to the success of the MS Society’s retail operations.

Closing date for applications: 09:00 on Monday 29th June 2026
N.B. Please confirm in your cover letter which location you’re applying for.

PLEASE PRESS THE 'HOW TO APPLY' BUTTON FOR MORE INFORMATION.

More about our employee benefits:
We have a wide range of employee benefits including (but not limited to): 

Encouraging work life balance

• 38 days paid annual leave (including bank holidays), pro-rata for part-time
• More annual leave entitlement, based on length of employment
• Smart working options (with the opportunity to work remotely and find a smart working pattern that suits both you and us) 
• Flexible working options 

Caring for you and your family 

• Generous sick pay entitlement
• More sick pay entitlement, based on length of employment 
• Opportunity to buy and sell annual leave in each calendar year 
• Free access to a GP virtually 24 hours a day/7 days a week allowing you unlimited advice, reassurance and where appropriate diagnosis 
• Enhanced leave for new parents 
• Free access to a confidential 24 hours a day/7 days a week helpline service for both you and your family with a specialist range of support and information
• Special leave options (such as up to 5 days paid leave for domestic or personal emergencies a year)
• 10 days paid disability leave a year, pro-rata for part-time 
• 10 days paid carers’ leave a year, pro-rata for part-time 
• Cycle to work scheme 
• Death in service scheme 
• New family-friendly benefits, including paid leave:
  • In the event of miscarriage or still birth 
  • To support fertility treatments
  • For antenatal appointments for both parents

Thinking about your finances 

• Enhanced salary sacrifice pension scheme
• Discounted season ticket loan and interest-free emergency loans
• Give as you earn to support other charities of your choice before tax
• New employee portal including lifestyle savings vouchers and personal wellbeing

Enriching your life at work

• Personalised development plans with a wide range of training courses and opportunities to source additional training options with your line manager
• Yearly internal apprenticeship opportunities
• New, modern offices that embrace working together both in-person and remotely 
• Various opportunities to influence how we internally operate (including surveys, and focus and committee groups) 
• Active and supportive internal employee networking groups for collaboration and peer support 
• 2 days paid leave a year for volunteering for MS Society activities during normal working hours (such as fundraising events, or campaigning in the local community) 
• 2 days paid leave a year for volunteering with other charities during normal

Equal Opportunities 
We particularly welcome applications from people with disabilities and or from ethnic minority backgrounds.

We’d be grateful if you downloaded and completed the equality and diversity monitoring form and submit it with your application. 

Disability Confident Employer 
We’re a Disability Confident Employer and we’re committed to promoting equality and diversity.

You can ask for reasonable adjustments as part of both our recruitment and new starter on-boarding processes.

If you need any help or adjustments to apply for this role, please contact us. You can also ask for the application materials to be sent to you in a different format. Such as for them to be sent to you by email or in a larger word format.

Safeguarding 
We’re committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of everyone who uses our services and we come into contact with.

This is regardless of Gender, Race, Disability, Sexual orientation, Religion or belief, Pregnancy, Gender reassignment.

We recognise our particular responsibility to make sure vulnerable adults and children are protected.

We have measures in place to protect everyone we come into contact with from abuse and maltreatment of all kinds.

Your right to work in the UK 
You must have the right to work in the UK to work in paid employment with us. You’ll need to share documents showing you’re eligible to work in the UK if we offer you employment.

You can find the UK visas and permits granting you the right to work in the UK on the UK Government website. We currently don’t have a Sponsor Licence agreement with the Home Office and aren’t able to support you with your visa applications.

No agencies please.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead Field Studies Council's Digital Learning & Publishing unit.

You'll develop strategy, build partnerships, grow income streams and lead a talented team delivering biodiversity training, digital learning and natural history publishing across the UK.

Success in this position will come from strong commercial leadership, strategic thinking and the ability to deliver sustainable growth while supporting our charitable mission.

• Permanent full-time contract
• Starting salary circa £36,973 - £44,091 per annum DOE + excellent benefits
• Flexible base location with remote / home working welcomed
• Make a visible, lasting contribution to environmental education across the UK

Work with purpose

At the Field Studies Council, our mission is to create outstanding opportunities that inspire everyone to engage with and care for the environment.

As our Digital Learning & Publishing Manager, you will lead a commercially focused business unit responsible for a diverse portfolio of biodiversity training, digital learning and publishing products. Working closely with the Commercial Director, you'll help form the future direction of the unit, ensuring sustainable growth, strong customer experience and meaningful impact.

In this key senior leadership role, you will:

• Lead the Digital Learning & Publishing unit, with accountability for its commercial and operational performance, budgeting, forecasting and P&L delivery.
• Develop and deliver commercial strategies that drive sustainable revenue growth across digital learning, publishing, partnerships and e-commerce.
• Identify new commercial opportunities and build relationships that expand our reach and impact.
• Use data, insights and customer feedback to improve performance, conversion, retention and customer value.
• Lead and develop a high-performing team.
• Oversee the successful delivery of biodiversity training courses, digital learning products and natural history publications.

Further detail regarding the full responsibilities can be found in the vacancy pack attached to the advert on our careers website.

Where you’ll be based

The base location for this position is negotiable, with remote working / home working welcomed. If you prefer working in an office environment, you can work from one of our Field Studies Centres across the UK. Hybrid working options can also be considered.

This role will include occasional travel to our Field Studies Council locations and other venues throughout the UK and will involve occasional overnight stays.

Who we're looking for

We're looking for someone with a commercial mindset who has owned budgets, delivered revenue growth and led business performance before. We're particularly interested in candidates who can demonstrate:

• Significant experience in a commercial leadership or business unit management role.
• Experience leading and developing high-performing teams in a commercial environment 
• P&L accountability and revenue growth delivery, with a track record of developing and scaling commercially viable products or services 
• Experience leading delivery project teams and managing vendors/freelancers. 
• Effective management and influencing of partnerships and networks 
• Budget management expertise, including a proven ability to ensure value for money
• An interest in learning, publishing, environmental education or the natural history sector.

Your benefits whilst working with us will include:

• 28 days annual leave + bank holidays
• 2 extra loyalty days dependent on length of service
• Life assurance 5 x your annual basic salary 
• Health and Wellbeing Support App for you and eligible family members to access remote GP appointments, mental health consultations, physiotherapy sessions and financial & legal support
• 24-hour Counselling Helpline Service
• Cycle to work and EV schemes
• Discounts and cashback opportunities 
• Flexible working options where roles permit
• Quality learning and development opportunities

If you are looking for a role where your leadership can make a genuine difference to environmental learning, we would be delighted to receive your application.

The closing date for receipt of your completed application is 8th July 2026.

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we’re in receipt of sufficient applications. Please apply early to avoid disappointment.

Interviews are scheduled to take place at Field Studies Council online in the week commencing 20th July 2026.

Shortlisted applicants will be contacted by email.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and we expect all team members to share this commitment. Any offer of employment will only be confirmed following the successful completion of rigorous pre-employment checks, including appropriate Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks / PVG Scheme check with Disclosure Scotland.